Tips For Writers: How To Create A Novel
Writing a novel can be daunting, as it’s not just the length but the depth of a novel that makes writing one difficult. What follows are tips to help prepare your novel.
PLOT: WHAT HAPPENS WHEN
The key to a great novel is a strong plot. You can organize your plot with a standard plot arc: exposition (the who, what, where and when of plot), rising action (the events that build to a defining moment), climax (the defining moment), falling action (the aftermath of the climax), and denouement (the resolution).
CHARACTER: THE BUILDING BLOCKS
Regardless of what happens, you need compelling characters to make things happen. Start with simple personality attributes and build from there. Write each character a mini biography. Even though a character’s parents may not matter to the story, how they raised him will influence how he acts.
THEME: THE MESSAGE IS THE MEDIUM
Though you may not intend it, your novel will have a message. That message is your novel’s theme. Crafting strong themes can be as simple as asking yourself, “What do I want to express?” or “What is the purpose of my novel?” Don’t start with a theme; let it develop as you write.